Due to unforeseen circumstances the launch of Pompey’s third kit has been delayed until Friday, October 23. We apologise to supporters for any inconvenience caused.

Pompey’s midfield diamond were in sparkling form at Wolves on Saturday. With Jamie O’Hara protecting the defence and Kevin-Prince Boateng looking threatening behind the strikers, the Blues picked up their first points of the season at Molineux courtesy of Hassan Yebda’s header. The system almost paid dividends at Fratton Park a week earlier when Paul Hart’s side were so unlucky in defeat against Everton. Pompey’s boss believes he has the midfielders to suit a system also favoured by Carlo Ancelotti at Chelsea. “It’s very attacking,” said Hart. “You can make it defensive if you wanted but really it’s very attacking. “There will be some games where it’ll be foolhardy to play that system – the diamond works in certain situations and 4-3-3 works in others. “But the players seem to enjoy it and they’re certainly making it work. “It’s difficult to play against. If you’re doing things right then sooner or later the opposition have to change. “Boateng loves his role. But you see him play in other positions and he fits in anywhere. He’s a phenomenal player. “Jamie’s good on the ball in a hectic situation. He takes the heat out. When he plays on the left he gives us extra balance or he can play in front of the back four where Michael Brown can play as well. “There’s a nice balance. When Aaron Mokoena plays he’s hard and uncompromising and when Yebda plays he gives us extra legs down the side.” Hart also pointed to the performances of Tommy Smith and Steve Finnan – who made his Blues debut at Molineux – as reasons why Pompey finally have some points on the board. He said: “Tommy’s tireless. You look at his figures and his work-rate is phenomenal. I think he’s been excellent since he’s come here. “You saw the calmness and reassurance that Steve gives to the back four. I thought he was faultless. “It buys a little bit of time for Anthony Vanden Borre to continue his progress. When we bring in players from abroad the Premier League is a million miles away from what they’re used to. “At times this season they’ve been flung in immediately when in an ideal world you’d ease them through.”

Younes Kaboul paid tribute to Paul Hart as Pompey triumphed at Wolves. The defender explained how the Blues boss gave him a pep-talk that has helped him perform so well this season. Pompey’s fans chanted Kaboul’s name at the end of the game as he threw his shirt into the away end in jubilation at the Blues’ 1-0 win. Kaboul told pfcTV: “Before the start of the season I had a little chat with the gaffer. He gave me big confidence and I want to do well in every game. “When the manager has such confidence in you, you have to give back. “We can go forward from this. Spurs were in the same position as us last season and finished in the top 10. Our aim is to stay in the Premier League. “The fans were massive. Since the start of the season they’ve been behind us and I wanted to say a big thanks.”

Marc Wilson is convinced Pompey can avoid the drop. The defender says the Blues’ excellent performance against Everton shows how Paul Hart’s new-look side is beginning to gel. Now he wants a win at Wolves on Saturday to get Pompey’s season motoring. Wilson told pfcTV: “I think we can definitely turn it around. The lads are starting to bond. “The evidence against Everton was that we could have won that game very easily. It was frustrating because we put in a good performance and could have had five goals.” “You can blame bad luck, but you have to put the ball in the back of the net to win games. We know we have to go and get three points on Saturday at Wolves.” Watch pfcTV for the whole of Wilson's interview.

Pompey bounced back from consecutive 5-0 defeats with victory against Crystal Palace at Copers Cope Road. There was controversy with just eight minutes on the clock when Michael Aonett appeared to slap Gautier Mahoto and the Blues midfielder retaliated. The referee responded by sending both players off. Pompey had already taken the lead through Ryan Gazet du Chattelier (pictured), although Jack Randall equalised for the hosts early in the second half. Two goals in quick succession from Danny Bogard and Jordan Hughes gave Paul Hardyman’s side a cushion. Jack Howard then pulled a goal back for Palace on 81 minutes but Pompey held on for a much-needed victory. Pompey: T.Smith, Gregory, Ryan, Goddard, Martin, Nlundulu (Hughes 63), Bogard, Mahoto, M.Smith, Navas Alors (Stockford 74), du Chattelier (Ciftci 56) Subs not used: O’Brien, Bennett Crystal Palace: Mann, Kendal (Zuberts 84), Nmani, Howard, Pawad, Aonett, Winter, Hulness, Randal, Senasa (Goldsmith 46 (Zaud 79)), Pinney Subs not used: Caprile, Fitzgerald

Pompey Ladies continued their unbeaten run with a 1-0 victory over Colchester at the weekend. Zoe NASH (pictured) scored the only goal of the game on 13 minutes, after latching onto a cross from Cassie Thorp. She then beat a defender before slotting the ball past the keeper from an acute angle. Pompey dominated the first half, and created a number of chances that should have given the hosts a wider lead going into the break. However, despite being less dominant in the second half, they maintained their lead and had a chance to double it denied when Kirsty McGee's header was ruled out for offside. Manager Vanessa Raynbird said: “It was a nice little win for us. “I thought we played extremely well in the first half, although it looked as though we had taken our foot of the gas a little in the second half. “With the heat and work-rate of the initial 45 minutes though, that was to be expected. “We were missing a couple of players through injury, which left us a little short at the back but it was nice to see players filling in, playing out of their natural positions and doing a good job. “It is a good win to take into our game against Brighton & Hove Albion on Wednesday night. “It will be a tough game, even though we’ve beaten them twice this season already. “Both games were tight, but the girls will be looking forward to the match.” Pompey: Worsfold, Keil, Hier, Fisher, Kirby, Hillier, McGee (c), Rutherford, Thorp, Nash, Lorton Subs not used: Miles, Booth, Russell

Tal Ben Haim believes Pompey can still survive despite a seventh straight Premier League defeat. The defender saw Tim Howard make a miraculous save from his header as Pompey somehow lost 1-0 at Fratton Park despite a mass of chances against Everton. Ben Haim told pfcTV: “We can’t get our heads down. We have to keep fighting and play our football and hope our luck changes. “We played well with a big heart and created some good chances. I don’t know how Tim Howard saved my header. “But I think we can turn it around. The manager is trying to build something and we’re playing well. If we can get one good result hopefully everything can change.”

Louis Saha struck late in the half to leave Pompey trailing at the interval. Paul Hart made seven changes from the side that won at Carlisle on Tuesday. Jamie O’Hara, Kevin-Prince Boaten and Tommy Smith all returned after being cup-tied for the Carling Cup clash in Cumbria. There were also starts for David James, Tal Ben Haim and Michael Brown, while Marc Wilson returned from a groin injury to take his place in the Blues’ defence. Both sides had an early sight of goal with Jamie O’Hara’s shot blocked, before Tim Cahill forced a routine save from James. Pompey’s keeper then made a spectacular-looking – although still comfortable – stop to keep out Cahill’s audacious 30-yard volley on 10 minutes. At the other end Dindane was sent through on goal by Boateng’s clever pass, but he was put off by John Heitinga’s presence and skewed his shot wide. The visitors were handed a good opportunity on 24 minutes when Aaron Mokoena brought down Saha 25 yards from goal, but Heitinga drilled the free-kick straight into the wall. Everton also appeared to be in generous mood when Tim Howard flapped at an Anthony Vanden Borre cross. However, the American keeper recovered quickly to prevent O’Hara from capitalising on the loose ball. Howard then made a fine save to stop his side from falling behind on 34 minutes, somehow getting a hand to Dindane’s low shot to turn the ball behind. James made an even better stop moments later, though, keeping Marouane Fellaini’s close-range header with his outstretched foot. Pompey were not lacking any creativity going forward and Boateng came close to breaking the deadlock on 40 minutes. The midfielder did well to turn former Blues defender Sylvain Distin in the box, but his strike narrowly cleared the crossbar. It was Everton who took the lead just before the break, however. SAHA beat Younes Kaboul to Heitinga’s long ball forward and lashed a shot past the onrushing James and into the net. They could have added a second in stoppage time but Cahill directed his header straight at James. Pompey: James; Vanden Borre; Kaboul, Wilson, Ben Haim; Brown, Mokoena (c), Boateng, O’Hara; Dindane, Smith Subs: Begovic, Williamson, Mullins, Yebda, Belhadj, Piquionne, Kanu Everton: Howard; Heitinga, Yobo (c), Distin, Baines; Osman, Cahill, Rodwell, Fallaini, Pienaar; Saha Goals: Saha 42 Subs: Nash, Neill, Hibbert, Gosling, Bilyaletdinov, Yakubu, Jo Referee: Alan Wiley

Pompey will host Stoke in the Carling Cup fourth round. The tie will be played at Fratton Park in the week commencing October 26. It is one of five all-Premier League matches to be played. Stoke booked their place in the fourth round after a nailbiting 4-3 victory against Blackpool at the Britannia Stadium. The Championship side had looked on course for an upset after leading for much the game. However, goals from Danny Higginbotham and Matthew Etherington drew the Potters level, before former Blues striker Ricardo Fuller put them ahead. Ben Burgess equalised for Blackpool and it was another Pompey old boy who secured the win for Stoke, when Andy Griffin scored the winner in injury time. Pompey’s progression came with a comfortable 3-1 win against League One Carlisle at Brunton Park. The Blues went behind after conceding an early penalty, but Aruna Dindane, Danny Webber and Anthony Vanden Borre all scored their first goals for the club to put Pompey through. Carling Cup Fourth Round: Blackburn v Peterborough Manchester City v Scunthorpe Tottenham v Everton Barnsley v Manchester United Chelsea v Bolton Sunderland v Aston Villa Arsenal v Liverpool POMPEY v Stoke

Sulaiman Al Fahim has told Pompey supporters that he plans to inject £50m into the club within the next month. Pompey’s owner said this would stabilise the club’s finances and help the Blues move forward. At a meeting with fans at Fratton Park on Friday night he backed boss Paul Hart to turn around Pompey’s form after a winless start to the Premier League season. Al Fahim also praised the work done by Pompey’s chief executive officer Peter Storrie. The Blues’ owner promised to invest in the first-team squad and continue the progress of the club’s academy. He also outlined his commitment towards developing the club’s infrastructure. Al Fahim met with supporters' groups and the Pompey Virtual Alliance, a group which represents members of several fan websites.

Contrary to some media reports, Portsmouth Football Club can confirm that Peter Storrie has not quit his post as chief executive and will be in attendance at tomorrow's match against Everton at Fratton Park. Peter Storrie said: "I am still here and my focus, along with everyone at the football club, is on tomorrow's match against Everton. "This club is not about any one individual and it's imperative that everyone here concentrates our efforts on supporting Paul Hart and the team tomorrow. "This is a very big game for us and more than ever we need the support of our great fans to help us through this difficult time."

As PFC fans will be aware, I cancelled a planned meeting for supporters that had been scheduled for this evening. This was primarily because I felt it would be a distraction to the game tomorrow, and thought it would be better to meet with fans on Saturday evening or Sunday, after the game. I also had a major business commitment on Friday afternoon that I could not release myself from. However, having spoken with some fans, I accept that this may have been an oversight on my part, and therefore tonight's meeting will go ahead as scheduled - at the agreed time and place. During this meeting, I hope I will get the opportunity to allay any concerns fans have. My apologies for the confusion. Can I also take this opportunity to clarify the remarks that have been attributed to me in the Spanish press. I did not in any way suggest that there would be no funds available for transfers until next summer. I was responding to a question regarding whether the club would consider signing major Spanish stars such as David Villa, to which I replied that not until after the infrastructure of the club and other issues were sorted – i.e. certainly not in January! My remarks have been both taken out of context and clearly lost in translation. I very much look forward to meeting with the club's supporters this evening to clarify the above. Sulaiman Al Fahim

Paul Hart says he can lead Pompey to Premier League survival. The Blues have yet to win a point this season ahead of Saturday’s clash with Everton at Fratton Park. But Hart insists that they can pick up a positive result against David Moyes’ Merseysiders. He said: “It’s a game that we’re looking to win. I’ve got great belief in the players – everybody is trying to get a result. “Everybody says it’s the worst start in the Premier League but nobody has had a situation like we did. “There were a number of names touted around that were going to take the manager’s job on but there’s only me here. “I’m still here, I’m still backing the club and I think we can turn it around. I’m the man for the job.”

There’s no mistake, Pompey have a big task ahead. Six defeats in six Premier League games has left Pompey at the foot of the table. But Steve Finnan is confident that the Blues can rise to the challenge and secure an eighth season in the top tier of English football. “The target is still what it was at the start of the season: remaining in the Premier League. “There will be a lot of clubs thinking exactly the same thing because it’s an extremely competitive league. “I know that the club have won the FA Cup and played in Europe over the last couple of seasons, but staying up will still be a massive achievement and I’m confident we can do it.” The defender has not featured for Pompey this season, after picking up a hamstring injury after 20 minutes of action in the pre-season fixture against Benfica. Now, however, he is looking forward to getting stuck into the fight for survival. “I feel better now and I’m just looking to get myself into the side. Hopefully I can be involved soon and help the team pick up some points. “The results have not been good and it’s frustrating watching from the sidelines knowing that there’s nothing you can do about it. “I’ve enjoyed my career so far and hopefully the experience I have can benefit the team.” To hear more from Steve, make sure you pick up your copy of the latest Pompey matchday programme. Inside, we take an in-depth look at our visitors and examine how the two sides stack up. We also reminisce about some of Pompey’s most amazing Premier League away wins, as well as taking a step back to the 2000/01 season – when Pompey narrowly avoided relegation from the old first division (now the Championship). And you get the chance to win a fantastic prize by voting for your greatest post-war Pompey centre-back. It’s going to be tough to call – but it’s in your hands! Plus, exclusive columns from Peter Storrie, Paul Hart, Alan McLoughlin and Sky Sports’ Martin Tyler make it an unmissable edition. All this and much, much more besides. A snip at just £3, the Pompey matchday programme is a great value read for all the family.

Portsmouth Football Club would like to put the record straight with regards to inaccurate reports in today's press that state manager Paul Hart walked out of his pre-match press conference. A club spokesman said: "Paul did not walk out on the press. “He answered all the questions put to him before the conference was halted by the club's director of communications, Gary Double. He was then led away to conduct other media interviews as is normal practise. "Despite the difficult circumstances the club finds itself in, Paul has always carried out his media obligations both before and after matches and has never walked out of a press conference or interview." The club will be seeking apologies from those publications concerned.

The draw for the fourth round of the Carling Cup will be made at approximately 12.15pm on Saturday. It will be shown live on Sky Sports’ Soccer Saturday programme. Pompey are ball number 12. Arsenal are number 1, Chelsea are 6, Liverpool are 8, Manchester United are 10 and Tottenham are number 16. Pompey have beaten Hereford 4-1 and Carlisle 3-1 to reach the last 16. The Blues have never been beyond the quarter-finals of the League Cup. They last reached the last eight in 2004, when they were beaten 3-0 at Watford. Ball Numbers: 1 Arsenal; 2 Aston Villa; 3 Barnsley; 4 Blackburn; 5 Bolton; 6 Chelsea; 7 Everton; 8 Liverpool; 9 Manchester City; 10 Manchester United; 11 Peterborough; 12 POMPEY; 13 Scunthorpe; 14 Stoke; 15 Sunderland; 16 Tottenham.

Watch Pompey book their place in the last 16 of the Carling Cup at Brunton Park. Pompey: Begovic; Vanden Borre, Kaboul, Mokoena (c), Belhadj; Mullins, Basinas, Utaka, Yebda (Brown 77); Webber (Piquionne 87), Dindane (Kanu 68) Goals: Dindane 26, Webber 32, Vanden Borre 63 Subs not used: Ashdown, Sowah, Mahoto Carlisle: Pidgeley; Raven, Livesey (Keogh 73), Murphy (Bridge-Wilkinson 73), Harte; Hurst, Taiwo (Dobie 77), Thirlwell (c), Robson; Anyinsah, Offiong Goals: Harte (pen) 3 Subs not used: Collin, Horwood, Madine, Rothery Referee: Neil Swarbrick Attendance: 7,032

Victory at Carlisle tonight moves Pompey one step further on the road to Wembley. So rather than viewing the Carling Cup third round tie as a distraction, Paul Hart is relishing the trip to Brunton Park. The Blue boss warns that the League One side represent a potential banana skin. But he is confident that Pompey – without the cup-tied quartet of Jamie O’Hara, Kevin-Prince Boateng, Tommy Smith and Mike Williamson – can progress to the last 16 in Cumbria. He said: “It’s another chance to win a football match and it’s important that we do that. “The Carling Cup is a competition that leads to a Wembley final, so we’re taking it seriously. I’ve said that from day one. “We’ve got a few people cup-tied but I still feel we can put out a pretty strong side. “I don’t think for one minute that it’s going to be an easy game but we’re more than capable of winning. “It’s what every lower league club wants – a visit from a Premier League side. “The Hereford game in the last round was a potential upset but we approached it brilliantly and we need the same approach for this game. “We have to stamp our authority on the game and don’t give their fans too much to sing about. “It’s important for confidence that we put our name in the hat for the next round." Hart also praised Pompey’s fans, who were so magnificent at Villa Park at the weekend despite watching their side lose. He said: “They’ve been terrific and they understand the situation. It goes without saying that we’re grateful for their support.” Pompey’s last visit to Brunton Park was in December 1985, when Mick Channon scored the only goal in the Blues’ 1-0 second-divison win. Carlisle are 17th in League One after three defeats from four at home this season. They lost 2-0 at Oldham last Saturday but have impressed in the Carling Cup with wins against Oldham and Bristol City.

Pompey Ladies continue to climb the league with another win – this time at the expense of Premier League Southern Division newcomers Queens Park Rangers. The Blues got off to a good start at Farm Park when Cassie THORP (pictured) scored on 12 minutes after being set-up by Zoe Nash and Justine Lorton. But QPR fought back and scored twice within the space of a few minutes midway through the first half, the equalizer coming from a corner with and the second courtesy of a shot off the underside of the bar. However, Pompey continued pressing and were rewarded when LORTON reached a corner from Thorp and headed the ball into the back of the net to bring the scores level. As half-time approached THORP then fired home a powerful, if rare, right-footed effort to restore the Blues lead. The visitors were dominant in the second-half and piled on the pressure as they looked to add to their tally. But despite pushing forward they were only able to add one more, when Lauren MURPHY headed in a corner on 69 minutes. Vanessa Raynbird said: “It was a good win up there. “QPR aren’t a bad side and they’ve got two very good, quick forwards. They caused a few problems for us in the first half and Louise Worsfold made some good saves to help keep them at bay. “But we were all over them in the second half and our fitness really showed in the last 20 minutes as they began to tire. “All in all, it is looking good this year. We’ve got quality players, who support each other well. They’ve got good vision and work hard. “We’re second in the table. It’s early days so we try not to look at the league too much but it’s always nice to see you’re doing well. “Hopefully we’ll get another result this weekend. We’re at home to Colchester, who beat us twice last season, so we’re going to be looking for a little bit of revenge. “We’ll also be playing in our brand new kit, which will be fantastic. I’d like to say thank you to Portsmouth Football Club for supplying us with it.” Pompey: Worsfold, Keil, Beaumont, Murphy, Kirby, Hillier (Hopson), Rutherford, McGee (c), Thorp, Lorton, Nash (Miles) Unused Sub: Palfreyman

Pompey Academy slumped to their second successive five-goal defeat at the Alan Higgs Centre. Coventry – who had taken 10 points from their opening four games – showed clinical finishing against Paul Hardyman's visitors. Callum Wilson opened the scoring from the penalty spot after he had been bundled over in the box, before Rob Ogleby headed home the hosts’ second. Coventry’s third also came from the spot with Suli Leluu converting after Ogleby had been bundled over. Pompey had a chance to reduce the deficit when keeper Michael Quirke spilled a cross, but Pablo Navas Alors fired wide with the goal gaping. They were made to pay for that miss when the hosts extended their lead further. Jacob Blackwell showed superb control to beat two defenders, before a deflected strike left Tommy Smith with no chance. Coventry wrapped things up on 81 minutes when Joel Grandison burst through the Pompey defence and stroked the ball home. Pompey: T.Smith; Hurst, Ryan, Wilkinson, Sowah; M.Smith (Navas Alors 77), Goddard, Stockford, Mahoto (Martin 61), Nlundulu; du Chattelier (Ciftci 61) Subs not used: O’Brien, Bogard Coventry: Quirke; Bottomer, Adams, Cameron, Greenway; Grandison (Bartle 82), Leluu (Bigirimana 77), Thomas, Blackwell; Wilson (Christie 46), Ogleby

First-half goals from James Milner and Gabriel Agbonlahor saw Pompey suffer their sixth successive Premier League defeat. Paul Hart named the same side that narrowly lost to Bolton at Fratton Park last week, although Tommy Smith moved out to the right in a 4-2-3-1 formation. The hosts had an early chance when Agbonlahor raced towards goal in the very first minute, but Younes Kaboul made a good challenge to divert the ball behind. At the other end Jamie O’Hara spotted Brad Friedel off his line and let fly with an audacious effort from 50 yards that flew over the crossbar. One of his team-mates went a lot closer to finding the net on 10 minutes, although it was his own keeper that Aaron Mokoena almost beat. The Pompey skipper was trying to deal with Ashley Young’s dangerous ball into the box but sent the ball towards goal, forcing David James to tip the ball over. Frederic Piquionne missed a great opportunity on 24 minutes, heading over from close range after Smith had delivered a decent cross from the right. But Villa were looking extremely dangerous as they broke quickly from their own half, causing Pompey’s defence plenty of problem. It was a needless foul by Nadir Belhadj that handed the hosts their lead on 34 minutes, though. The Algerian tripped Stiliyan Petrov in the box to concede the Blues’ third penalty of the season and Milner stepped up to slam home the spot-kick. O’Hara tried to pull Pompey level soon after. His shot from outside the box was awkwardly saved by Friedel and the ball rebounded to safety. Instead the visitors found themselves two goals down when Agbonlahor turned Tal Ben Haim with ease before lashing an unstoppable shot into the net. Half Time: Aston Villa 2 Pompey 0 Villa came close to adding a third goal early in the second half but James made a fine save to deny Petrov after Young’s free-kick had only be partially cleared. Pompey had a chance to pull a goal back on 58 minutes. The ball was just cleared from Piquionne’s path as the Frenchman looked to connect with Kevin-Prince Boateng’s free-kick. The midfielder then had an opportunity of his own a few moments later but his low strike was well saved by Friedel. Pompey were suddenly looking dangerous and Friedel was called into action again on 64 minutes, this time denying Piquionne after the striker had skipped past a couple of weak challenges. The American made another – albeit more comfortable – save soon after. Belhadj embarked on a great run from inside his own half but his cleanly-struck shot was straight at the American keeper. Kanu and Danny Webber replaced Smith and Piquionne on 77 minutes as Hart looked to inject some fresh attacking impetus into his side. Despite the score, Pompey’s travelling army of around 800 supporters were the only ones that could be heard. Unfortunately they could not inspire a late fight-back and the Blues continue to search for their first point of the season. Pompey: James; Vanden Borre, Kaboul, Ben Haim, Belhadj; Brown, Mokoena; Smith (Kanu 77), O’Hara, Boateng; Piquionne (Webber 77) Subs not used: Begovic, Williamson, Mullins, Yebda, Utaka Aston Villa: Friedel; Cuellar, Collins, Dunne, Warnock; Milner, Sidwell, Petrov (c), Young; Carew (Heskey 66 (Delph 80)), Agbonlahor Goals: Milner (pen) 34, Agbonlahor 43 Booked: Cuellar, Agbonlahor Subs not used: Guzan, Beye, Gardner, Shorey, Delfouneso Referee: Stuart Atwell Attendance: 35,979

Goals from James Milner and Gabriel Agbonlahor give Aston Villa a comfortable lead at the interval. Paul Hart named the same side that narrowly lost to Bolton at Fratton Park last week, although Tommy Smith moved out to the right in a 4-2-3-1 formation. The hosts had an early chance when Agbonlahor raced towards goal in the very first minute, but Younes Kaboul made a good challenge to divert the ball behind. At the other end Jamie O’Hara spotted Brad Friedel off his line and let fly with an audacious effort from 50 yards that flew over the crossbar. One of his team-mates went a lot closer to finding the net on 10 minutes, although it was his own keeper that Aaron Mokoena almost beat. The Pompey skipper was trying to deal with Ashley Young’s dangerous ball into the box but sent the ball towards goal, forcing David James to tip the ball over. Frederic Piquionne missed a great opportunity on 24 minutes, heading over from close range after Smith had delivered a decent cross from the right. But Villa were looking extremely dangerous as they broke quickly from their own half, causing Pompey’s defence plenty of problem. It was a needless foul by Nadir Belhadj that handed the hosts their lead on 34 minutes, though. The Algerian tripped Stiliyan Petrov in the box to concede the Blues’ third penalty of the season and Milner stepped up to slam home the spot-kick. O’Hara tried to pull Pompey level soon after. His shot from outside the box was awkwardly saved by Friedel and the ball rebounded to safety. Instead the visitors found themselves two goals down when Agbonlahor turned Tal Ben Haim with ease before lashing an unstoppable shot into the net. Pompey: James; Vanden Borre, Kaboul, Ben Haim, Belhadj; Brown, Mokoena; Smith, O’Hara, Boateng; Piquionne Subs: Begovic, Williamson, Mullins, Yebda, Utaka, Webber, Kanu Aston Villa: Friedel; Cuellar, Collins, Dunne, Warnock; Milner, Sidwell, Petrov (c), Young; Carew, Agbonlahor Goals: Milner (pen) 34, Agbonlahor 43 Subs: Guzan, Beye, Gardner, Shorey, Delph, Delfouneso, Heskey Referee: Stuart Atwell

Sulaiman Al Fahim has in principle secured new finance to inject into Portsmouth Football Club over the coming months. Pompey’s owner has agreed to meet with supporters’ groups ahead of the Blues’ next home game against Everton to outline his plans for the future of the club. Chief executive officer Peter Storrie said: “Sulaiman has been in America for the last couple of weeks and has in principle secured new finance which will come into the club over the next couple of months. “Following discussions with me, he is very happy to meet representatives from fan websites and supporters’ clubs before the Everton game. “Sulaiman will outline his plans for the club and the way forward, something he was not in a position to do before the refinancing of the club was done.”

Portsmouth ’Til I Die is a book that tells many stories - supplied by the full spectrum of Pompey supporters. Some will make you laugh, others will make you cry, but all will give readers an insight into what it really means to be a fan of Portsmouth Football Club. Looking at the images and reading the words will hopefully spark your own memories of a very special football club. Real football stories told by real football fans. The Portsmouth ‘Til I Die project is based on an existing concept that has proved very successful at other clubs, designed to capture the personal stories and club-related memories from a wide range of the club’s die-hard supporters. Funding for the project has been provided by the National Literacy Trust, Arts Council England, Department for Children, Schools and Families, the Football Foundation, the Professional Footballers Association and the Pompey Study Centre. As well as producing an entertaining read, the publication of this book will give a number of benefits to the club and to the community which it serves. Six-hundred free copies of Portsmouth ’Til I Die will be distributed to local schools, libraries and community groups, strengthening the club’s links with the local community and encouraging new generations of Pompey fans. The book is available for pre-order from the Pompey Study Centre. The first 2,000 supporters ordering the book before 5pm on Friday will have the opportunity to have their names printed in the back free of charge. The Portsmouth ‘Til I Die book is available for £10 with an additional £3.60 charge for postage and packing within the UK. Please order in person from the Study Centre using cash or cheques. We are unable to accept card payments. For orders outside the UK please phone for delivery costs. Books will be shipped as soon as published (approximately 28 days). Address: Pompey Study Centre, Anson Road, Portsmouth, PO4 8TB. Tel: 023 9275 2587.

Tommy Smith was named Air Malta man-of-the-match for Pompey’s narrow defeat to Bolton at Fratton Park. The striker – playing only his second game for the Blues – was a constant menace alongside Frederic Piquionne up front. Smith probably should have won Pompey a penalty early in the second half when tripped by Jussi Jaaskelainen, but the challenge went unpunished. And his impressive performance went unrewarded as Gary Cahill’s late goal sealed a 3-2 victory for the visitors.

Heartache is becoming a familiar emotion at Fratton Park these days. There was attacking verve about Pompey as they smelt a win against Bolton. But, undone by defensive errors, the Blues remain rooted to the bottom of the Premier League after their 3-2 defeat. There were legitimate complaints about Bolton’s penalty just before half-time that swung the momentum of the game their way when Pompey were on top. And Gary Cahill’s winner should have been scrubbed out for offside against Matt Taylor. But the fact is that Pompey are without a point after five top-flight games ahead of Saturday’s trip to Aston Villa. The timing of Bolton’s winner was typically cruel for Pompey fans, who still hurt at the thought of killer late goals by AC Milan and Liverpool last season. This time it was a long throw into Pompey’s box that seemed to be headed up in the air half-a-dozen times before Cahill nodded it past David James with Taylor offside and interfering with play. Wanderers boss Gary Megson admitted afterwards that Pompey played the better football. And few would argue that they deserved at least a point. With Jamie O’Hara, Kevin-Prince Boateng and Tal Ben Haim all making their debuts in a 4-4-2 formation, there had been an optimism around Fratton Park before kick-off. And the number of chances Pompey created suggested it wasn’t misplaced. But the Blues failed to make the most of the opportunities that came their way. They equalised twice, first through Younes Kaboul’s header from Jamie O’Hara’s corner and then courtesy of Kevin-Prince Boateng’s sidefoot into the Milton end net after the break. But they should have scored more, with Frederic Piquionne twice missing great chances with his head and Kaboul guilty too. The worry for Hart is that Bolton created as many excellent opening themselves with Taylor and Kevin Davies both missing the target when it might have been easier to score. The Blues were carved open for Tamir Cohen’s rifle into the net as Bolton took the lead and then gave referee Chris Foy the chance to award a penalty when Davies went over under Ben Haim’s challenge. The penalty was debatable – Ben Haim appeared to get the ball first – but the real source of the goal was Nadir Belhadj needlessly giving the ball away deep in his own half. The intelligent forward play of Tommy Smith was a plus for the Blues who now seem to possess a significant attacking threat. But the job of trying to gel together a team so freshly assembled remains a challenging one.

Gary Cahill grabbed a late winner for Bolton after Pompey had twice come from behind to level at Fratton Park. Paul Hart handed debuts to Tal Ben Haim, Kevin-Prince Boateng and Jamie O’Hara, while David James returned from injury to replace Asmir Begovic in goal. With Sean Davis suspended and Andy O’Brien on the bench, Matt Taylor was the only former Blue starting for Bolton. It was the visitors who had the game’s first good opportunity on four minutes. Mark Davies met Sam Ricketts’ dangerous cross from the right but David James made a comfortable save. O’Hara – playing on the left side of a diamond midfield quartet - had Pompey’s opening chance. His shot from distance flew high over the crossbar, however. At the other end Taylor really should have come back to haunt his former side, but he screwed a shot well wide of the post. Instead it was Tamir Cohen who punished Pompey on 13 minutes. The midfielder latched onto Steinsson’s through ball and hammered a shot into the roof of the net. Frederic Piquionne came close to levelling on 21 minutes after meeting Tommy Smith’s cross from the right, but could only guide his header wide of the post. Pompey were level four minutes later, however. Hart may have thrust more attacking players into his side but it was a defender who got the goal. O’Hara swung a corner into the box from the left and Younes KABOUL timed his run to perfection before rising highest to head home. Kaboul could have put the Blues ahead moments later, just failing to make a solid connection with another O’Hara corner. The French centre-back then turned provider, swinging in a superb cross from the right that was just too high for Piquionne. O’Hara’s corners were causing plenty of problems for Bolton but the visitors were still looking threatening themselves in an end-to-end half. And Gary Megson’s side were gifted the lead on 41 minutes. Nadir Belhadj lost possession to Kevin Davies just outside his box, causing Ben Haim to make a rash challenge on the striker and concede a penalty. Taylor stepped up to calmly send James the wrong way from the spot. Pompey tried to level again straight away but there was nobody in place to benefit from Piquionne’s low cross into the box. The Blues were then denied claims for a penalty of their own when Boateng went down under pressure while trying to reach Belhadj’s ball into the box. Half Time: Pompey 1 Bolton 2 They perhaps should have won a penalty just a minute into the second half, however, when Jussi Jaaskelainen appeared to trip Smith after he had capitalised on a mix-up between the keeper and Zat Knight. Once again though, referee Chris Foy was not interested and waved play on. O’Hara then fired a free-kick narrowly over the crossbar after Boateng had been fouled 25 yards from goal. Michael Brown was next to go close. His shot took a massive deflection off Cohen as it flew inches over. Boateng then skipped past a couple of weak challenges before drilling a shot towards the bottom corner that was comfortably intercepted by Jaaskelainen. The Finnish keeper denied Smith moments later after the Blues striker had down well to find space to shoot on the edge of the box. But Pompey finally made their pressure count on 63 minutes when BOATENG netted a debut goal to level. Belhadj’s cross was only partially cleared and although Knight managed to block O’Hara’s shot, the ball only fell as far as Boateng, who calmly steered it home. The Blues almost pulled ahead but Cahill did well to prevent Smith from meeting Kaboul’s low cross into the box. O’Hara’s left the pitch to hearty applause on 72 minutes as Hassan Yebda became the fourth Pompey debutant. Pompey were not sitting back and settling for a draw. Both Kaboul and Brown missed chances to put the Blues ahead. But Cahill should have restored Bolton’s advantage on 72 minutes. He received the ball in acres of space but took an age to line up his shot, allowing Ben Haim to get back and make a vital block. Hart then made his second change of the afternoon as Danny Webber replaced Smith for debut number five. The newcomer made an instant impression, whipping a cross into the box that Piquionne should really have connected with. Pompey were still looking frail at the back, however, and only some awful close-range finishing from Kevin Davies prevented them from falling behind again. Cahill spared his team-mate’s blushes and broke Pompey hearts on 89 miniutes, though. The centre-back’s header was allowed to stand despite an offside colleague blocking Ben Haim’s attempts to clear. Pompey: James; Vanden Borre, Kaboul, Ben Haim, Belhadj; Brown, Mokoena (c), Boateng, O’Hara (Yebda 72); Piquionne, Smith (Webber 83) Goals: Kaboul 25, Boateng 63 Booked: Kaboul, Belhadj Subs not used: Begovic, Williamson, Mullins, Utaka, Kanu Bolton: Jaaskelainen; Ricketts (Klasnic 71), Cahill, Knight, Samuel; Steinsson, M.Davies (Basham 71), Muamba, Cohen (McCann 78), Taylor; K.Davies (c) Goals: Cohen 13, Taylor (pen) 41, Cahill 89 Subs not used: Al Habsi, O’Brien, Robinson, Lee Referee: Chris Foy Attendance: 17,564

Matt Taylor's penalty gives Bolton an interval lead after Younes Kaboul had cancelled out Tamir Cohen's opener. Paul Hart handed debuts to Tal Ben Haim, Kevin-Prince Boateng and Jamie O’Hara, while David James returned from injury to replace Asmir Begovic in goal. With Sean Davis suspended and Andy O’Brien on the bench, Taylor was the only former Blue starting for Bolton. It was the visitors who had the game’s first good opportunity on four minutes. Mark Davies met Sam Ricketts’ dangerous cross from the right but David James made a comfortable save. O’Hara – playing on the left side of a diamond midfield quartet - had Pompey’s opening chance. His shot from distance flew high over the crossbar, however. At the other end, Taylor really should have come back to haunt his former side, but he screwed a shot well wide of the post. Instead it was Cohen who punished Pompey on 13 minutes. The midfielder latched onto Steinsson’s through ball and hammered a shot into the roof of the net. Frederic Piquionne came close to levelling on 21 minutes after meeting Tommy Smith’s cross from the right, but could only guide his header wide of the post. Pompey were level four minutes later, however. Hart may have thrust more attacking players into his side but it was a defender who got the goal. O’Hara swung a corner into the box from the left and KABOUL rose highest to head home from close range. Kaboul could have put the Blues ahead moments later, just failing to make a solid connection with another O’Hara corner. The French centre-back then turned provider, swinging in a superb cross from the right that was just too high for Piquionne. O’Hara’s corners were causing plenty of problems for Bolton but the visitors were still looking threatening themselves in an end-to-end half. And Gary Megson’s side were gifted the lead on 41 minutes. Nadir Belhadj lost possession to Kevin Davies just outside his box, causing Ben Haim to make a rash challenge on the striker and concede a penalty. Taylor stepped up to calmly send James the wrong way from the spot. Pompey tried to level again straight away but there was nobody in place to benefit from Piquionne’s low cross into the box. The Blues were then denied claims for a penalty of their own when Boateng went down under pressure while trying to reach Belhadj’s ball into the box. Pompey: James; Vanden Borre, Kaboul, Ben Haim, Belhadj; Brown, Mokoena (c), Boateng, O’Hara; Piquionne, Smith Goals: Kaboul 25 Subs: Begovic, Williamson, Mullins, Yebda, Utaka, Webber, Kanu Bolton: Jaaskelainen; Ricketts, Cahill, Knight, Samuel; Steinsson, M.Davies, Muamba, Cohen, Taylor; K.Davies (c) Goals: Cohen 13, Taylor (pen) 41 Subs: Al Habsi, O’Brien, Robinson, McCann, Lee, Basham, Klasnic Referee: Chris Foy

Barclays Premier League 2009/10 table Pos Team Pld GD Pts 1 Chelsea 4 8 12 2 Tottenham 4 7 12 3 Man Utd 4 6 9 4 Man City 3 4 9 5 Stoke 4 -1 7 6 Arsenal 3 7 6 7 Liverpool 4 2 6 8 Aston Villa 3 2 6 9 Sunderland 4 -1 6 10 Burnley 4 -3 6 11 West Ham 3 1 4 12 Birmingham 4 -1 4 13 Wolves 4 -2 4 14 Hull 4 -4 4 15 Fulham 3 -3 3 16 Everton 3 -5 3 17 Wigan 4 -5 3 18 Blackburn 3 -3 1 19 Bolton 3 -3 0 20 POMPEY 4 -6 0 Pompey Squad 2009/10 first team Goalkeepers: 1. David James DOB: 01/08/70 Pompey Apps: 132 15. Antti Niemi DOB: 31/05/72 Pompey Apps: 0 21. Jamie Ashdown DOB: 30/11/80 Pompey Apps: 45 31. Asmir Begovic DOB: 20/06/87 Pompey Apps: 5 Defenders: 2. Linvoy Primus DOB: 14/09/73 Pompey Apps: 219 Pompey Goals: 6 3. Younes Kaboul DOB: 04/01/86 Pompey Apps: 30 Pompey Goals: 2 7. Hermann Hreidarsson DOB: 11/07/74 Pompey Apps: 69 Pompey Goals: 6 14. Mike Williamson DOB: 08/11/83 Pompey Apps: 0 Pompey Goals: 0 16. Steve Finnan DOB: 20/04/76 Pompey Apps: 0 Pompey Goals: 0 18. Anthony Vanden Borre DOB: 24/10/87 Pompey Apps: 4 Pompey Goals: 0 26. Tal Ben Haim DOB: 31/03/82 Pompey Apps: 0 Pompey Goals: 0 35. Marc Wilson DOB: 17/08/87 Pompey Apps: 10 Pompey Goals: 0 39. Nadir Belhadj DOB: 18/06/82 Pompey Apps: 44 Pompey Goals: 2 40. Joel Ward DOB: 29/10/89 Pompey Apps: 1 Pompey Goals: 0 43. James Hurst DOB: 31/01/92 Pompey Apps: 0 Pompey Goals: 0 44. Luke Wilkinson DOB: 02/12/91 Pompey Apps: 0 Pompey Goals: 0 Midfielders: 4. Aaron Mokoena DOB: 25/11/80 Pompey Apps: 5 Pompey Goals: 0 5. Jamie O’Hara DOB: 25/09/86 Pompey Apps: 0 Pompey Goals: 0 6. Hayden Mullins DOB: 27/03/79 Pompey Apps: 21 Pompey Goals: 0 8. Papa Bouba Diop DOB: 28/01/78 Pompey Apps: 55 Pompey Goals: 0 11. Michael Brown DOB: 25/01/77 Pompey Apps: 1 Pompey Goals: 0 22. Richard Hughes DOB: 25/06/79 Pompey Apps: 137 Pompey Goals: 2 23. Kevin-Prince Boateng DOB: 06/03/87 Pompey Apps: 0 Pompey Goals: 0 32. Hassan Yebda DOB: 14/05/84 Pompey Apps: 0 Pompey Goals: 0 33. Angelos Basinas DOB: 03/01/76 Pompey Apps: 5 Pompey Goals: 0 42: Gautier Mahoto DOB: 21/02/92 Pompey Apps: 1 Pompey Goals: 0 Forwards: 9. Frederic Piquionne DOB: 08/12/78 Pompey Apps: 5 Pompey Goals: 1 17. John Utaka DOB: 08/01/82 Pompey Apps: 64 Pompey Goals: 7 19. Danny Webber DOB: 28/12/81 Pompey Apps: 0 Pompey Goals: 0 20. Tommy Smith DOB: 22/05/80 Pompey Apps: 1 Pompey Goals: 0 24. Aruna Dindane DOB: 26/11/80 Pompey Apps: 0 Pompey Goals: 0 27. Kanu DOB: 01/08/76 Pompey Apps: 98 Pompey Goals: 21

Fans who are not members or season ticket holders but who have already bought or buy tickets for the games against Bolton and/or Everton have been given a priority window to purchase seats for Spurs’ visit to Fratton Park. Tickets for these supporters go on sale from Thursday, September 17 – four days before being released for general sale on Monday, September 21. Seats go on sale to members on Monday, September 14 and season ticket holders on Wednesday, September 16. Pompey host Tottenham on Saturday, October 17, kick off 3pm. You can buy tickets during the relevant booking window by calling 0844 847 1898 (option one), online at www.portsmouthfc.co.uk/etickets or in person at the club’s ticket office in Rodney Road. Tickets to all matches are subject to availability.

Tickets for Pompey’s match at Wolves on Saturday, October 3 are now on general sale. The Blues have not visited Molineux since August 2003 when the sides shared a goalless draw in a top-flight clash. Tickets can purchased online at www.portsmouthfc.co.uk/etickets, by phoning 0844 847 1898 (option two) or in person at the ticket office in Rodney Road. Pompey have an allocation of around 1,500 seats for this fixture, which kicks-off at 3pm. Tickets are priced at £24 for adults, £14 for seniors (65+), £11 for under-17s and £8 for under-12s. Supporters buying concession tickets are strongly advised to take proof of age identification to the game. Failure to do so may mean they will have to upgrade to the adult price or not be admitted to the ground.

Blues boss Paul Hart says Pompey won't be sitting back against Bolton on Saturday. Both sides are searching for their first points of the season in the 3pm showdown at Fratton Park. Hart told pfcTV: “We’re going to really take the game to Bolton. The way we go about it will hopefully turn a few heads.” The Blues signed eight players in the final days of the summer transfer window with the prospect of several making their debuts against Gary Megson’s side. Hart said: “The players we’ve brought in are hungry. They’ve all got something to prove.” Pompey are looking for their first Premier League win since a 3-1 triumph over Sunderland in May. Bolton have not won any of their last 10 top-flight matches. Their most recent three-point haul came against Middlesbrough at the Reebok Stadium on April 4.

David Nugent has joined Burnley on loan following approval of the deadline-day switch by the Premier League. The 24-year-old striker heads to Turf Moor until the end of December, with an option to extend the agreement. Nugent has made 44 appearances and scored six goals for Pompey since signing from Preston in July 2007. The forward scored three Premier League goals for Pompey, his first in a 1-1 draw at Tottenham in January. Nugent also netted the third-round winner at Ipswich to set Pompey on the road towards their FA Cup final win against Cardiff in May 2008. The Liverpool-born striker scored on his only appearance for England against Andorra in 2007.

Under-sevens can attend Pompey’s third round Carling Cup tie against Carlisle United at Brunton Park for free. Adult seats cost £20, while senior (65+) tickets are priced at £14, 11-17-year-olds pay £10 and under 11s £4. The game kicks off at 7.45pm on Tuesday, September 22. Tickets for the match will go on sale on Monday, September 7. You can purchase tickets by phone (0844 847 1898, option 2), in person at the ticket office in Rodney Road or by post (an S.A.E is required, along with correct payment). They will not be available online. Supporters buying concession tickets are strongly advised to take proof of age identification to the game. Failure to do so may mean they will have to upgrade to the adult price or may not be admitted into the ground.

Pompey Academy 1 Sheff Utd Academy 1 Pompey were denied victory five minutes from the end when Sheffield United grabbed an equaliser at the Wellington Sports Ground. At times they had clung on to a fifth-minute lead given to them by Nadir Ciftci (pictured) but they perhaps should have put the game beyond doubt in a first half they totally dominated. The Blades came out a lot stronger after the break and but for a brilliant penalty save from Tommy Smith, Paul Hardyman’s side could have finished with nothing. Pompey got their dream start when Tom Kilbey’s long pass sent CIFTCI through on goal and the striker calmly rolled the ball past keeper Adam Billard. Gael Nlundulu then went on a sparkling run that took him past three players, before smashing a low drive across the face of goal. The winger sent a great cross in from the left soon after, but Carl Walshe headed over with the goal at his mercy. Smith was only called into action once in the first half, flying to his right to tip Jordan Chapell’s long shot round the post. At the other end, Kilbey met Billy Goddard’s corner but his goal-bound header was superbly kept out by Billard. Nlundulu was then sent clear by Ciftci’s fine pass, but he missed the chance to double Pompey’s lead by rolling his shot harmlessly wide. Half Time: Pompey 1 Sheffield United 0 The visitors were a different proposition after the interval, keeping Pompey penned into their own half for long periods. Perry Ryan had to come to the hosts’ rescue, clearing Shane Murray’s shot off the line after a poor defensive header had left Smith in trouble. But Pompey should have wrapped victory up on 68 minutes. Billard somehow denied Goddard from point-blank range, before Ciftci completely missed the loose ball. Instead, Sheffield United were given the chance to level four minutes later when Ryan was harshly adjudged to have handled in the box. Nathan Foster stepped up to take the spot-kick but was brilliantly denied by Smith. The visiting keeper then made a fine save of his own to stop Kilbey from sealing victory - and that proved pivotal. With time running out, Dan Bennett was dispossessed and Chapell laid the ball off for Liam Wilkinson to roll home from close range. Pompey: T.Smith; Gregory (Magri 61), Bennett, Stockford, Sowah (Martin 61); Nlundulu, Ryan, Goddard (Wheeler 76), Kilbey; Ciftci, Walshe Subs not used: O’Brien, Navas Alors Sheffield United: Billard, O’Kane, Rae, Williams, Brown, Foster, Lamy, Gregory (Ahmond 76), Murray (Morgan 70), Wilkinson, Chapell Sub not used: Andrew Referee: Daniel Austin

Matt Ritchie has joined League Two side Notts County on loan until the end of December. The midfielder scored 12 goals in 40 appearances on loan at Dagenham & Redbridge last season. The 19-year-old has emerged through Pompey’s academy and has been an unused substitute three times for the Blues first-team this season. He was named Pompey’s Young Player of the Season for 2008/9 at the club’s annual award ceremony in May.

Pompey Reserves 2 Chelsea Reserves 5 Goals from Danijel Subotic and Gautier Mahoto saw Pompey fight back from two-goals down, but Luke Wilkinson’s red card gave Chelsea the chance to take all three points at Westleigh Park. Guy Whittingham named a youthful side to face the Londoners - Angelos Basinas, Jamie Ashdown, Joel Ward and Mahoto were the only players with any first-team experience. The visitors took an early lead when Jamie Ashdown came off his line to claim a cross, only to miss the ball completely and leave Adam Phillip with a simple finish. It was hard to identify the Chelsea players, who were wearing orange bibs over their shirts to avoid a clash with the referee’s black top. Wilkinson earned himself a yellow card for tugging one of those bibs on the edge of the Blues box. The centre-back was not punished further, however, as the resulting free-kick was blasted straight into the wall. Phillip came close to adding a second goal on 22 minutes, just failing to connect with Ben Gordon’s dangerous cross from the left. Instead it was his strike-partner Fabio Borini who doubled Chelsea’s advantage four minutes later, rifling a low shot into the bottom corner. But Pompey pulled a goal back on 30 minutes. Paris Cowan-Hall bulldozed his way past several defenders before finding SUBOTIC, who steered the ball home. A quick break presented the visitors with an opportunity to restore their two-goal lead but Borini blazed the ball high over the bar. Gael Kakuta then forced Ashdown to make a fine save with a thunderous shot from distance just before the interval. Half Time: Pompey 1 Chelsea 2 A touch of flair from Mahoto brought smiles to a crowd sheltering from the rain early in the second half. The midfielder found himself surrounded by four Chelsea players wide on the left but he somehow skipped into space to deliver a cross that was headed clear. Unfortunately he was not quite so impressive minutes later, over-hitting a cross as Subotic, Cowan-Hall and Eugen Bopp waited in the box. He more than made up for that on 61 minutes, however. James Hurst delivered a fine cross from the right that was flicked on by Cowan-Hall for MAHOTO to assuredly guide into the net. But the Blues had to play the last 25 minutes with just 10 men. Wilkinson received his marching orders from referee Warren Atkin after receiving a second booking following a late challenge on Kakuta. Chelsea almost capitalised immediately on their numerical advantage. Borini’s powerful shot rattled off the crossbar, before Michael Woods’ follow-up was spectacularly saved by Ashdown. But they did go back ahead from the resulting corner, with Borini finding space in the box to head past a helpless Ashdown. Borini was inches away from completing his hat-trick on 75 minutes. The striker let fly with a stunning strike from 35 yards that cannoned off the crossbar. Chelsea were well on top now and Phillip added their fourth with a low shot from the edge of the box after a neat move had opened up the Blues back-line. They had chances to extend their lead further but a mixture of last-gasp defending and good keeping from Ashdown was keeping them at bay. But Phillip was able to claim his hat-trick in stoppage time, firing into an empty net after Ashdown had collided with Dan Bennett. Pompey: Ashdown; Hurst (Gregory 71), Wilkinson, Ward (c), Sowah; Basinas (Bennett 68), Bopp; Cowan-Hall, Mahoto, Nlundulu; Subotic (du Chattelier 77) Goals: Subotic 30, Mahoto 61 Sent off: Wilkinson (second bookable offence) Subs not used: O’Brien, Stockford Chelsea: Taylor; Ahamed, Hutchinson, Gordon, Strickland; Clifford, Woods (c), Ofori-Twumasi (Clifford 38), Kakuta; Borini, Phillip Goals: Phillip 3, 78, 90, Borini 27, 68 Subs not used: Sebek, Hayden, Philliskirk, Lalkovic Referee: Warren Atkin Attendance: 292

New Pompey signing Kevin-Prince Boateng tells pfcTV that he cannot wait to play in front of a noisy Fratton Park crowd. The 22-year-old midfielder is also looking forward to linking up with best friend Younes Kaboul on the south coast.

Respect not fear. That’s what Frederic Piquionne insists Manchester City’s star-studded team deserve when they visit Fratton Park for Sunday’s lunchtime clash. “They have a great squad with many top class stars, but they are just footballers like us, so we won’t treat them like royalty,” he reveals in this weekend’s official matchday programme. “We have to show them respect, of course. We show every side respect, just like we expect to be shown respect by them. “But they will get no more and no less than we offer anyone else.” To read more from Frederic, make sure you pick up your copy of the latest Pompey matchday programme. Inside, we also hear from Alan McLoughlin - who casts his expert eye over the the game and predicts how the side will line up at Fratton Park. We also recall some of the most controversial moments of Pompey’s Premier League years so far, and take a look back at the Blues’ first FA Cup-winning season in 1938/9. Plus, you can vote for Pompey's greatest left-back and hear what Blues boss Paul Hart has to say about the game. All this and much, much more besides. Priced at just £3, it’s a great value read for all the family.

Wolves Reserves 1 Pompey Reserves 2 Pompey’s young reserve side began the new season with victory against Wolves at Telford’s New Bucks Head ground. Goals from Paris Cowan-Hall and Tero Mantlya put the Blues into a comfortable position, although Wolves pulled a goal back to ensure a nervous finale. COWAN-HALL fired the visitors ahead on 11 minutes after Eugen Bopp’s shot had been blocked in the box. He almost grabbed a second moments later when Matt Ritchie’s clever lob sent him through on goal but Carl Ikene did well to save. That was the Wolves keeper’s final piece of action, however, as he picked up a knock and was replaced by Daniel East. The hosts’ first decent opportunity fell to James Spray late in the first half, but he headed Scott Malone’s corner over the bar. And Tommy Smith was forced into action just before the interval, getting down quickly to tip Ryan McGoary’s shot round the post. Half Time: Wolves 0 Pompey 1 It was Pompey who looked the more dangerous side early in the second half and Bopp’s effort was deflected inches wide. The midfielder went close again soon after, while Gautier Mahoto fired narrowly over the crossbar. But their dominance led to a second goal on 55 minutes when MANTYLA headed home Mahoto’s corner at the near post. Wolves pulled a goal back less than a minute later, however. Ashley Hemmings got the goal, waltzing through the Blues defence before beating Smith from close range. And they had the ball in the back again before the end, but Smith was adjudged to have been fouled and the goal was ruled out. Pompey: T.Smith; Gregory (Sowah 72), Wilkinson, Mantyla, Hurst; Bopp (Kilbey 65), Mahoto (du Chattelier 72), Pack; Cowan-Hall, Ritchie; Subotic Subs not used: O’Brien, Tallack Wolves: Ikene (East 24), Little, Jones, Batth, Ward, Davis (Price 69), McGoary, Rooney, Hemmings, Spray, Malone Subs not used: Reckord, Landell, Metcalf Referee: Mr J.G. Adcock